Unusual Careers
Uncover Hidden Job Opportunities
For young people willing to think outside the box, there are countless high-paying jobs that don’t require a traditional college degree. Many of these roles offer better pay than common college-graduate positions. Do you see someone doing something unique in your city? Or hear of an interesting job elsewhere? You could do it too. Below are a few we’ve researched, but this is just the beginning. The possibilities are endless if you're willing to explore.
THE CAREERS
Oil Pipeline Welder Career Resource Page
Description of Job: Oil pipeline welders use specialized techniques to join and repair pipeline sections, often working in challenging environments like remote oil fields. The job involves long hours, precise work, and often requires relocation to where pipelines are under construction or maintenance.
Underwater Welder Career Resource Page
Description of Job: Underwater welders combine commercial diving with specialized welding to maintain, repair, and install underwater structures like pipelines, oil rigs, and ships. This job requires the ability to weld in challenging, sometimes hazardous underwater environments, often in offshore or remote locations. It's a highly skilled profession with significant earning potential, but it also carries considerable risk.
Wind Turbine Technician Career Resource Page
Description of Job: Wind turbine technicians, also known as wind techs, install, maintain, and repair wind turbines, which are crucial for generating renewable energy. This job involves working at significant heights and in various weather conditions, inspecting turbines, troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues, and ensuring the turbines operate efficiently. Wind techs often travel to remote locations where wind farms are located.
Skydiving Instructor Career Resource Page
Description of Job: Skydiving instructors guide first-time and returning jumpers through their jumps, ensuring safety and an enjoyable experience. Instructors work primarily in tandem jumps or accelerated freefall (AFF) training, assisting students during the jump and landing procedures. This job is adrenaline-fueled and requires extensive skydiving experience before teaching others.
CrossFit Trainer Career Resource Page
Description of Job: CrossFit Trainers lead high-intensity group workouts, incorporating weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio exercises. They motivate, guide, and ensure proper form to help clients achieve fitness goals while minimizing injury risk. CrossFit trainers work in gyms, often called affiliates, where they may also assist in gym management or client relations.